This Short Documentary Offers A Window Into The History Of Jamaica’s Record Industry

Pressing Matters in Jamaica explores forgotten reggae history.

Pressing Matters in Jamaica, a new short film from the Vinyl Factory and music journalist Vivien Goldman, offers a look at the state of the country's nearly-forgotten vinyl record industry. In doing so, it also looks back on the rich history of reggae, dub, and dancehall, from a particular vantage point.

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The film tells the story of a once-thriving, now defunct industry that once produced some of the island's most enduring, globally impactful cultural artifacts. Goldman does a good job compiling interviews—from scene legends like Earl “Chinna” Smith, plus DJs, curators, collectors and more—that offer insight into importance of preserving its history.

The documentary also explores key locations in the island's musical history, including some legendary record stores and Bob Marley's Tuff Gong pressing plant. Interestingly enough, the plant is set to reopen its doors for manufacturing this year, in an attempt to capitalize on the current vinyl resurgence. Watch the film above.